San Jose is located in Silicon Valley and is part of Santa Clara County. This northern California city is considered a technologically global location, attracting people from around the world. With low crime and beautiful scenery, San Jose is home to more than 982,000 people1 who enjoy cutting edge modern conveniences and an array of city and county resources.

Mental Health Statistics
San Jose offers a variety of resources to help its residents address mental health and behavioral issues. In Santa Clara County, just over 5% of all adults had a serious mental illness in 2000, and nearly 7% of all young people hada serious emotional disturbance, according to California’s Department of Mental Health2. Among the many available outlets for service are inpatient and psychiatric hospitals, andin 2008 and 2009, just over 3,000 county residents were admitted for 72-hour holds or evaluations countywide3.

Embracing Diversity and Families
San Jose and Santa Clara County residents have access to numerous programs and events offered through Family& Children Services (FCS). FCS is committed to helping residents develop strong, safe family environments, and each year, more than 6,000 people participate in the services offered through the FCS4.

Programs offered by FCS target specific age groups and specific needs. For children under the age of five, FCS offers counseling, including play therapy, and uses evidence-based therapies to improve the bond between children and parents. Early identification of behavioral or emotional problems is a primary goal of this division. Children aged 6 to 12 benefit from school-based workshops that teach coping skills. Those from low-income families are targeted for academic improvement and attendance enhancement. Teens and young adults can learn life skills that enable them to develop into independent, successful members of society, and those with emotional issues or who engage in violent activities can receive support and counseling at school. Other services aimed at this vulnerable age group include substance abuse treatment and a broad range of mental health services that focus on prevention, confidentiality, and reducing the risk of self-harm and suicide.

The FCS acts as a safety net for at-risk families. Through a variety of programs addressing substance abuse, communication problems,violence, divorce, and mental health services, families in need have access to support and treatment. Even those without financial means or transportation can receive assistance to help them overcome barriers to help.Adult programs are designed to improve workplace safety, employment opportunities, family communication, and overall mental health5.

Individuals with unique issues, such as hearing issues or sexual identity issues, can also receive support and help through FCS. Special programs have been developed to help children transitioning from foster care to independent living, for veterans, and for those in the criminal or juvenile justice system with both substance abuse and psychological problems6.

As part of Santa Clara County, San Jose is able to provide both city-level and county-level services to all its residents to ensure that each individual has access to affordable, high-quality mental healthcare.